AWKA — Anambra State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, has described nation-building as a collective responsibility, saying it requires citizens to determine the destiny of the country through their individual and collective actions.
Soludo spoke at an interdenominational service held at the Cathedral of St Faith, Awka, to mark Nigeria’s 66th Independence anniversary.
The governor also used the occasion to mourn Master Success Ezenwafor, a pupil of Nnamdi Azikiwe University Primary School, who was swept away by flood in Awka
Soludo said Nigeria had faced several challenges since independence but had not failed, stressing that citizens had a duty to contribute positively to the development of the country
He said, “As we reflect on 66 years of our nationhood, it reminds us that nation-building is a collective responsibility
“Yes, we have challenges The agricultural boom of old has waned, but Nigeria has not failed. Our duty is to bless this country, to speak well of her, and to brighten the corner where we are because personal integrity is national integrity.”
The governor noted that governments would come and go, but Nigeria would continue to exist, urging citizens to remain committed to the country’s progress
While praying for the peaceful repose of Ezenwafor’s soul, Soludo urged residents to turn the tragedy into a catalyst for greater personal responsibility in protecting the environment and preventing future flooding incidents
He stressed that everyone had a role to play in safeguarding their communities, particularly by ensuring that drainage systems were not blocked
According to him, residents should also prevent rainwater from being channelled from their compounds onto roads, noting that such practices could contribute to flooding and endanger lives
Soludo said the state government had already commiserated with the bereaved family through various channels, while assuring that his administration remained committed to addressing issues affecting the safety and wellbeing of residents
He prayed that God would grant the family, school and community the fortitude to bear the loss
The governor further reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to peace, progress and good governance in Anambra State